Liverpool’s draw against Leeds United may have generated headlines centered on Mohamed Salah, but the attention on the Egyptian forward ultimately shielded Ibrahima Konaté from deeper criticism. While Salah became the talking point of the evening, Konaté’s continuing struggles raised a much more pressing issue for Arne Slot—one that can no longer be avoided.
The match initially appeared to be a turning point in Liverpool’s favor. Hugo Ekitike’s opening goal energised the away fans and seemed to offer Slot the momentum boost he had been searching for. When he doubled the lead, Ekitike looked like a player determined to justify his place in the starting lineup, commanding the game with confidence and composure.
For a while, Liverpool appeared in control. The second half should have unfolded with little drama, but Salah’s involvement shifted the story—and before the final whistle, Konaté found himself at the center of unwanted attention once again.
Although Konaté started the match with signs of stability, the nervousness creeping into his game foreshadowed what came next. His costly error felt almost predictable given recent performances.
Slot addressed the situation candidly afterward, admitting that while Konaté contributes plenty of positives, he has been involved far too often in goals conceded. The manager highlighted the sequence that led to Leeds’ breakthrough—the attempted block, the loose ball, the ensuing contact—and acknowledged that while VAR’s intervention was debatable, the decision wouldn’t surprise many.
With Conor Bradley now available, despite being suspended for the upcoming league match against Brighton, Slot has a genuine alternative. Joe Gomez, no longer required to cover full-back duties, stands as the most natural replacement for Konaté. Gomez is not without flaws, but his current form and composure far outweigh what Konaté has shown in recent weeks.
It is becoming increasingly clear that Konaté needs a reset. His confidence and decision-making appear unsettled, and persisting with him in the starting lineup risks further damage—to both his form and Liverpool’s defensive stability.
As Liverpool prepares for a crucial Champions League fixture against Inter Milan, rotation is expected. Slot has an opportunity to recalibrate his defense, and moving Gomez into the centre-back role should be high on his list of changes
